The J&K Peace Forum has raised serious concerns over the illegal sale and leasing of temple lands in Jammu and Kashmir. The organization has accused a powerful nexus of land mafia, politically connected individuals, and corrupt officials of facilitating these unauthorized transactions while authorities remain silent.

Illegal Transactions Ignored by Authorities

Satish Maldar, a representative of the J&K Peace Forum, issued a statement condemning the misuse of temple properties by influential elites. He alleged that despite clear directives from the Jammu and Kashmir High Court affirming that temple deities are the rightful owners of these lands, encroachments and illegal sales continue without intervention.

Violation of Legal Protections

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has ruled in favor of protecting temple lands, emphasizing their ownership by temple deities. However, Maldar pointed out that unauthorized land deals and encroachments are still rampant, indicating a failure in enforcement by the authorities.

Call for Immediate Action

The J&K Peace Forum has urged the government to take strict action against the land mafia and hold officials accountable for violating legal protections for temple properties. They have also called for public awareness and legal measures to prevent further illegal transactions.

The ongoing illegal sale of religious lands in Jammu and Kashmir highlights the urgent need for government intervention and strict law enforcement to protect heritage and religious properties.